simple living and financial independence

A good idea for Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is here again and it is time to show off our plumage to keep the fire burning with our partner. But what is the best way to do that without breaking the bank? That is a very good question!

VALENTINE’S DAY FOOD

I know this may sound crazy but we associate food (and a few other things) with memories. So why not create some of your best memories together, as a couple, through food. Not only will you be creating lasting memories, but there are a few foods that are KNOWN for their aphrodisiac properties.

Avocado

These fantastic powerhouses are great aphrodisiacs and are fabulous for your overall health too. Just make sure that you pick out a perfectly ripe avocado, or ripen it on the counter or in a paper bag. Otherwise, it won’t have as much flavor and won’t be as exciting to your partner.

Dark Chocolate

Almost all (although, I am not one of them) women love good chocolate. However, dark chocolate is where you want to be if you are seeking the aphrodisiac properties as well as the overall health benefits. Anywhere from 60% – 85% dark chocolate is what you are looking for.

Garbanzo Beans

Also called “Chickpeas,” these awesome beans pack a ton of protein and fiber, as well as a lot of aphrodisiac properties.

Watermelon

This lovely, juicy red melon is a natural powerful aphrodisiac. Therefore, no matter what you decide to cook, adding this food into your plan will do you well.

Pumpkin Seeds

Also known as “Pepitas,” they have a deliciously meaty flavor and are very high in aphrodisiac properties. They have also been known as one of the world’s healthiest foods and are pretty easy to add into a culinary plan.

COOKING FOR YOUR PARTNER

If you know your way around a kitchen, and can clean up after yourself, then this idea is always a winner! When, and if, you decide to embark upon this avenue of showing your affection, then coming up with a dish that has aphrodisiac properties is the way to go.

The other key here is to cook something that you don’t normally cook, but still keep within the budget. The goal is to make it more special than just a regular evening at home. And that means making the ambiance match the mood you are trying to set. Whatever meal you end up creating, flowers and candlelight are a must.

However, you don’t need to go for the expensive flowers. Make sure that you know what types of flowers she likes and go for those. If you can’t find them because they aren’t in season, then I would suggest going for flowers from places like Trader Joe’s or Whole Foods (if you have either of those near you). I have consistently been able to get some really beautiful flowers that last a really long time for prices as low as $3.99! Either way, you don’t have to break the bank to get some decent flowers.

The overall gist on this action plan is that if you cook an out of the ordinary meal that contains foods with aphrodisiac properties, and accompany it with flowers and candlelight, then you have a winning combo. Just don’t forget to clean up after yourself, because nobody likes to have to do the dishes afterwards. Plus, sometimes there is nothing sexier than a man who does the dishes!

COOKING TOGETHER

Learning a new skill together creates more memories, which just increases your bond. Plus, you are doing it with food, which only strengthens the bond. There are many places around the country that offer regular cooking classes. A lot of these, especially in February, are geared towards couples and date nights.

These classes not only reinforce your bond together but also provide the opportunity to meet with other couples and potentially learn a new skill along the way. During most of these classes you get to drink wine or beer while you watch the Chefs cook. But if you are really wanting to get more involved, then some of these classes will let you assist with the dish as opposed to just watching.

Keep in mind that these types of classes are typically going to be more expensive than the former option of cooking at home. So if you are really on a tight budget, then I would stick with creating culinary delights for your loved one at home. But if you have a little bit more to spend, this is still a better option than going out to a restaurant, plus you get the group experience.

Whatever option you choose this Valentine’s Day, make sure that it is something that is especially geared towards them. Think about what makes them happy and how they like to have affection shown to them. When you keep all of that in mind, you don’t have to spend a ton of money to make the day special. Just putting the effort into the day to show them what they mean to you will only increase your bond, thereby bringing back the romance.